Convert KMZ to GPX Online — Free & Instant
KMZ files from Google Earth and Google My Maps can be converted to GPX for use on GPS devices, smartwatches, and navigation apps. GPX is supported by Garmin, Wahoo, Suunto, Strava, Komoot, AllTrails, and virtually every outdoor navigation application. Maparz decompresses the KMZ, extracts the KML geometry, and outputs a clean GPX file.
File converter
When to convert KMZ to GPX
- Loading Google Earth routes from KMZ onto a Garmin GPS or cycling computer
- Converting Google My Maps KMZ exports for use in Strava or Komoot
- Importing KMZ hiking trails into Suunto, Coros, or Polar devices
- Transferring KMZ field survey paths to handheld GPS units
- Converting KMZ routes for offline navigation in OsmAnd or Maps.me
How to convert KMZ to GPX
- 1
Upload your KMZ file
Drop your .kmz file on the upload zone. KMZ is automatically decompressed.
- 2
Select GPX output
Click GPX in the 'Convert to' section.
- 3
Download the GPX
The .gpx file downloads automatically. It contains your routes, tracks, and waypoints from the KMZ.
- 4
Load onto your GPS device
Transfer the .gpx to your Garmin GPX folder, import into Strava, or open in Komoot.
About KMZ
KMZ is a ZIP-compressed version of a KML file. It typically contains a doc.kml file at its root along with any referenced images, icons, or overlays. KMZ files are smaller than their KML counterparts, making them easier to share by email or embed on web pages. They are supported by Google Earth, QGIS, ArcGIS, and many online mapping tools. KMZ files can be uploaded directly to Google My Maps.
Strengths
- +Smaller than raw KML
- +Can bundle images and overlays
- +Widely accepted by mapping tools
About GPX
GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is an XML-based format for storing GPS data including waypoints, routes, and tracks. It is the de-facto standard for sharing GPS recordings from devices like Garmin, Suunto, and smartphones. GPX is natively supported by Google Earth, Strava, Komoot, Garmin Connect, and virtually every GPS application. A GPX file can contain three types of data: waypoints (individual points of interest), routes (ordered lists of waypoints for navigation), and tracks (continuous GPS recordings with timestamps). GDAL reads and writes GPX natively.
Strengths
- +Universal GPS device compatibility
- +Supported by Strava, Garmin, Google Earth
- +Contains timestamps and elevation data
- +Human-readable XML
Frequently asked questions
Q.What is the difference between KMZ and KML?
KMZ is a ZIP-compressed KML file. The geometry and attributes are identical — KMZ is just smaller. Both can be converted to GPX.
Q.Can I also convert a plain KML file?
Yes. Use the KML to GPX converter on this site for .kml files. Both tools produce identical GPX output.
Q.Will placemark names from my KMZ appear in the GPX?
Yes. KMZ placemark names are converted to GPX waypoint names. Path names become GPX track names.
Q.Can I load the result on a Garmin device?
Yes. Connect your Garmin via USB and copy the .gpx file to the Garmin/GPX directory on the device.
Q.Does elevation data transfer from KMZ to GPX?
Yes. If your KMZ contains altitude values, they are transferred to GPX elevation elements.